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Stonemasonry Apprenticeship at York College

Course description

The UK construction industry makes a vital contribution to the economy. However, there is a skills shortage in the industry and this work-based course ensures that staff needs meet national
standards. Stonemasonry is a specialist craft and as a stonemason you would use your skills to carve architectural features, cut and shape blocks, or lay and fit stonework into place on construction projects. As a banker mason you would follow design instructions
to carve and shape stone, and give it a textured or polished finish (known as dressing) using hand and power tools.

Course content

Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Stonemasonry (Site based units)

Mandatory units:
Conforming to general health, safety and welfare in the workplace
Conforming to productive working practices in the workplace
Moving, handling and storing resources in the workplace
Producing standard stonemasonry components in the workplace
Producing standard templates and moulds in the workplace

Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Stonemasonry (Site based units)

Mandatory units:
Conforming to general health, safety and welfare in the workplace
Confirming work activities and resources for an occupational work area in the workplace
Developing and maintaining good occupational working relationships in the workplace
Confirming the occupational method of work in the workplace
Producing complex stonemasonry components in the workplace
Producing complex templates and moulds in the workplace

There are three pathways available:
Banker – this is carving and shaping stone
Fixer – this is erecting and fixing stone in place
Memorial – this is making and erecting memorial stones

Entry requirements

To start the course you must be employed in a relevant role for a minimum of 30 hours per week.
In addition, for the Intermediate Apprenticeship (Level 2) you will have a minimum of 3 GCSEs at grade D or above to include English and Maths (grade 3+). You must have completed the Intermediate
Apprenticeship (Level 2) prior to starting the Advanced Apprenticeship (Level 3).

Assessment

For the NVQ you will build up a portfolio, which is a collection of examples or evidence of your work that demonstrates your skills and ability, including a work diary, photos, statements from your employer and colleagues and examples of completed
tasks. Assessment consists of practical tasks, observations, oral questioning, written questions, assignments, projects and written tests.

The Diploma is assessed using both practical and online tests.

The Functional Skills are assessed through online tests.

Future opportunities

Many students progress from the Apprenticeship to the Advanced Apprenticeship. There is then the opportunity to progress to higher level courses such as the National Certificate or National
Diploma in Construction.

How to apply

If you want to apply for this course, you will need to contact York College directly.